Morocco's King Mohammed VI has appointed Fatima Ezzahra El Mansouri as the country's prime minister, marking a historic milestone as the first woman to hold the position in the Muslim kingdom. El Mansouri, a 50-year-old attorney, was previously the Urban Planning Minister and mayor of Marrakech. Her appointment was announced by the Royal Palace on Tuesday, September 29, 2026.
El Mansouri's nomination comes four days after the results of the country's elections were announced. She has been tasked with forming a new government and is expected to build a governing coalition in the coming days. Morocco's electoral system makes it challenging for a single party to win an absolute majority, making coalition-building a crucial aspect of her new role.
As prime minister, El Mansouri will oversee significant investments linked to the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which Morocco is set to host. Her government will also focus on delivering on promises to fight inflation, raise wages, and create jobs. El Mansouri's appointment makes her the second woman to serve as prime minister in the Arab world, following Najla Bouden in Tunisia.
El Mansouri's background in urban planning and her experience as mayor of Marrakech are seen as assets in her new role. Her appointment is also viewed as a significant step towards increasing women's representation in Moroccan politics. The country's center-right PAM party secured the most seats in the recent elections, but it remains to be seen how El Mansouri will navigate the country's complex political landscape.
The Royal Palace statement announcing El Mansouri's appointment did not provide details on her policy priorities or the composition of her government. However, it is expected that she will work to address the country's economic challenges, including high inflation and unemployment. El Mansouri's appointment has been widely covered in Moroccan and international media, with many hailing it as a breakthrough for women's rights in the country.
El Mansouri's experience in local politics and her work as a lawyer have prepared her for the demands of the prime minister's office. Her appointment is seen as a significant achievement for women's empowerment in Morocco and the wider region. The country is set to host several high-profile international events in the coming years, including the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which will require significant investment and planning.
The international community has welcomed El Mansouri's appointment, with many leaders congratulating her on her new role. Her government is expected to face significant challenges, including addressing the country's economic and social issues. However, her appointment has also been seen as an opportunity for Morocco to showcase its commitment to women's rights and empowerment.
Key points
- Fatima Ezzahra El Mansouri is the first woman to hold the position of prime minister in Morocco.
- El Mansouri's government will focus on investments linked to the 2030 FIFA World Cup and addressing economic challenges.
- Her appointment marks a significant milestone for women's representation in Moroccan politics.
